Athletic-wear having integral measuring sensors

ABSTRACT

A system and method for tracking athletic movements, the system has one or more sensors, a computing unit, and external computing devices. The sensors generate electrical signals descriptive of detected physical movement of an athlete during a sporting event. The computing unit obtains the electrical signals generated by the sensors in real time. The computing unit determines athletic performance parameters in real time based on the electrical signals. The computing unit also computes performance assessments for the athlete based on the performance parameters. The performance assessments correspond specifically to a sport of the sporting event and indicate a peak athletic performance metric for the athlete. The external computing devices communicate data indicating content associated with the sporting event over a network to subscriber devices that are connected to a gambling network or fantasy sports league network, and the content enables an interactive display of performance assessments on the subscriber devices.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/284,027, filed on Oct. 3, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/511,873, filed on Oct. 10, 2014, now U.S.Pat. No. 9,456,785 issued Oct. 4, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/591,895 filed on Aug. 22, 2012, now U.S.Pat. No. 8,860,584 issued Oct. 14, 2014, which is a divisional of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/429,246 filed on Apr. 24, 2009, now U.S.Pat. No. 8,253,586 issued Aug. 28, 2012, the entirety of each of theabove is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present inventions relate generally to athletic-wear havingelectronic devices for measuring and displaying information, and moreparticularly to athletic-wear that includes integral electroniccircuitry and sensors for measuring, processing and displaying thevarious parameters of an athlete's performance including real timedisplay and data transmission.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The footwear industry currently provides shoes and boots that includetechnology for measuring and monitoring certain aspects of individual orathletic performance. For example, pedometers have been incorporated infootwear for measuring the distance a person walks or runs based uponbody motion and different theoretical mathematical calculations.Footwear also includes devices for measuring and remotely displayingpersonal and physiological parameters such as pulse rate, weight andcalorie loss, body temperature and the like.

Particular references in the field include the U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication 2007/0021269 dated Jan. 25, 2007 to Shum entitled INTERFACESAND SYSTEMS FOR DISPLAYING ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ONELECTRONIC DEVICES, which discusses an athletic performance monitoringsystem for measuring athletic performance data and displaying thedesired information in a variety of manners. The sensors 102(a)-102(d),can be placed in or about the shoe, wrist-bands, and/or articles ofclothing. The sensors detect physical or physiological conditions, andtransmit that information for electronic processing and display on unitssuch as LCD's, LED's or plasma screens. This reference discussesdisplaying information for pedometer type speed and/or distance measureoutlets, GPS data, step impact force, jump height data, pulse rate, bodytemperature, blood pressure and hydration levels. Also, the patentapplication discloses athletic performance monitoring systems includingcomponents for sensing performance data and/or displaying desiredinformation to users. Electronic interface systems facilitate transferof the data from the performance sensing system to a display device,e.g., to enable the display of athletic performance data on anelectronic display device, including conventional electronic displaydevices that are known and commercially available (e.g., cellulartelephones, PDAs, pagers, beepers, MP3 or other audio players, radios,portable televisions, portable DVD players, other video playing devices,watches, etc.). The sensing systems, as well as any data transfersystems associated therewith, may be included as part of an article offootwear, an article of clothing, a piece of athletic equipment, or thelike, or even included as part of the interface device.

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2007/0011919 dated Jan. 18, 2007issued to Case, Jr. is entitled SYSTEMS FOR ACTIVATING AND/ORAUTHENTICATING ELECTRONIC DEVICES FOR OPERATION WITH FOOTWEAR AND OTHERUSES and is directly related to the '269 publication. This publicationaddresses the actual specific sensors and systems for activating theelectronic devices in conjunction with the footwear or other articles ofclothing.

Note FIGS. 3(A), 4 and 6 which depict the sensor unit 102 being placeabout the sole of the footwear. Various methods are discussed foractivating and/or deactivating the detachable module from the clothingor footwear, different algorithms for calculating various data, as wellutilizing light sources, magnets and magnetic sensing systems, and RFIDsystems. There is also an integrity aspect to these first twodisclosures, in which authentication and authorization confirmations arecalculated. Both references focus on how the module is removeablysecured to the footwear, and how there is a dual activation system usedin conjunction with the module. The module can be attached utilizingstraps, flaps, Velcro type fasteners or the like. Additionally, theapplication discloses articles of footwear and footwear systemsincluding modules, e.g., for sensing physical and/or physiologicalcharacteristics associated with use of the footwear or for performingother functions. Such systems and methods may use physical or otherinteraction(s) between the module and the article of footwear foractivating and/or deactivating the module and/or sensing devicesincluded with the module, for confirming whether the module and footwearare authorized for use with one another, and/or for automatic dataalgorithm selection methods. Additionally, such systems and methods alsomay use the activation and/or authentication systems for the module fordata input to the module. Some examples of such systems and methods mayutilize magnets and magnetic sensing systems and/or light (or otherradiation) sources and sensing systems for activation, authentication,data input, and/or algorithm selection.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,200,517 issued on Apr. 3, 2007 to Darley et al. isentitled MONITORING ACTIVITY OF A USER IN LOCOMOTION ON FOOT discloses aspecially designed mount which is removable attached underneath theshoelace of a shoe, and incorporates a tongue and groove mount andhousing system. The device senses motion of the shoe, and determinesphysiological parameters as well as pedometer readings. Complex softwareand mathematical calculations are used to determine distance, heartrate, speed and altitude. The patent discloses an apparatus comprising amount, a housing, and a sensor. The mount is adapted to be disposed atleast partially underneath a shoelace of a shoe. The housing isconfigured and arranged in at least first and second states in relationto the mount, wherein in the first state the housing is movable withrespect to the mount and in the second state the housing is immovablewith respect to the mount. There is a tongue on one of the mount and thehousing and a groove on the other of the mount and the housing, thetongue being adapted to engage the groove when the housing is in thesecond state in relation to the mount and to disengage the groove thenthe housing is in the first state with respect to the mount.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,331 issued on Jan. 30, 2007 to Vock et al. isentitled SHOES EMPLOYING MONITORING DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS andillustrates specially designed accelerometers used with sensors whichcalculate speed or distance traveled, among several other end uses. NoteFIGS. 36, 37 and 61, which disclose multiple sensors being incorporatedinto each respective shoe, wherein time differentials received betweenshoes are used to calculate distance and speed. Additionally, methodsare disclosed for determining speed or distance traveled of movingpersons by utilizing sensors selectively insertable within shoes. Shoebased systems employing sensors (e.g., accelerometers) are disclosed todetermine and report (e.g., via a watch or MP3 player) speed and/ordistance traveled.

Japanese Patent Publication JP20004121267 dated Apr. 22, 2004, issued toKiyoshi is entitled STEP DETECTOR, FRONT STEP SEARCHING SYSTEM ANDTRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM relates to a step detector and front searchingmechanism for shoe wear. The abstract indicates that sensors andultrasonic transmitters are used to measure the forward distance to anobject, as well as the height of the road surface from the shoe bottoms.The technology is used to assist those people who are vision impaired orblind, and to control the flow of traffic in the vicinity.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,703,445 “ATHLETIC SHOE FOR RUNNING DISCIPLINES AND APROCESS FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION AND/OR FOR EXCHANGING INFORMATIONCONCERNING MOVING 5 SEQUENCES IN RUNNING DISCIPLINES” discloses anathletic shoe system for running disciplines and a process for emittingand/or exchanging information concerning movement factors of runningdisciplines enabling the athlete to always be sufficiently informedregarding his/her training program that is in progress or completed. Inparticular, in an area of the sole that is less stressed during use, atleast one free space is provided where a transmitter is housed which,via a sensor provided in the sole, can emit at least one output signal.In accordance with preferred embodiments, a transmitter in a first shoeof a pair of shoes receives the signals from the sensor and transmitsemissions in correspondence with their receipt.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,452,269 “Athletic Shoe with Timing Device” discloses anathletic shoe that includes a timing device for measuring the amount oftime the athletic shoe is off the ground and in air. The athletic shoecan also include a notification device that can be operatively coupledto the timing device for notifying a wearer of the athletic shoe of amessage. The message can include information related to the amount oftime the athletic shoe is off the ground and in the air.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,720,200 “Performance Measuring Footwear” discloses afoot mounted apparatus for measuring one or more locomotive performanceparameters of a person. Such locomotive performance parameterspreferably include user vertical leap time, user vertical jump distance,user walking or running speed, user trip distance traveled, andaccumulated total lifetime distance traveled by the apparatus. It ispreferred that the apparatus include all of the structures of anathletic shoe such as a sole, upper, tongue, and lace. Four membraneswitches are located in the sole of the footwear: a pair of membraneswitches is positioned under the ball of the user's foot and a pair ofmembrane switches is positioned under the heel of the user's foot. Themembrane switches sense the compressive pressure of the foot on the soleand detect when the foot leaves and contacts the underlying surface. Amicroprocessor calculates a performance parameter for the person basedupon the elapsed time between the foot push off and the foot strike.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,054,784 “Sport Monitoring Systems” discloses methods andsystems for determining speed, power and/or impact (sportingcharacteristics) of persons involved in activity. Wireless signals maybe generated indicative of the sporting characteristics for receipt anddisplay on a watch worn by the user or on a remote display. Sensors mayattach to the person or to a vehicle ridden by the person, to gaugeactivities such as jogging, hockey, biking, football and aerobics.

The remaining general state of the art relates to pedometers, apparatusmounted within or around shoes, skis, boots or lofted vehicles, alongwith location and tracking systems. These generally disclose a varietyof systems utilizing activation switches, microprocessors, electroniccircuits, and software to process and calculate desired monitoringconditions. These include loft or air time, distances traveled andterrain encountered, and impact conditions. Many different sensors,receiver/transmitters, display units, wrist and head bands arediscussed. Some references use loft time to calculate the height ofjumps with correction factors.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A performance measuring system integrated with an article of clothing,the system comprising a computing unit means for coordinating,processing and transmission of sensor data connected to a bus means andan antenna means; a sensor means for measuring performancecharacteristics connected to the bus means; a bus means for facilitatingtransmission and reception of control and data values between thecomputing unit means and the sensor means; and an antenna meansconnected to the computing unit means for communicating with othercomputing devices and transmission of sensor data. The other computingdevices display the sensor data to a user or forward the sensor dataonto another communication media such as the internet or interactivetelevision.

In another embodiment there is a social networking system for thesharing of athletic statistics comprising a webservice accessible via aninternet; a personal processing unit that is selectively connectible tothe webservice through user interaction and that is also loaded with aclient computing software; a computing unit having an activity programfor at least one sensor and the computing unit connected to at least onesensor device that is selectively connectible to the personal processingunit through user interaction. This social networking system furthercomprises an activity update service integrally associated with thewebservice wherein the activity update service transfers updates to thecomputing unit through communication via the internet and across thepersonal processing unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be better understood by reference to the drawings asdescribed below.

FIG. 1 is a system level view of the instant invention that is to beintegrated with an article of clothing such as a shoe, glove or othersuch item as taught by the invention.

FIG. 2 is a graphical illustration of the range of sensors that singlyor in any combination may be integrated into an article of clothing suchas a shoe, glove or similar item as taught by the invention.

FIG. 3A is a graphical representation of a first view of themodularization choices as taught by the instant invention.

FIG. 3B is a graphical representation a second view of themodularization choices as taught by the instant invention.

FIG. 4 is a high level illustration of a sports themed website utilizedin coordination with the instant invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart that shows the operation of the instant invention.

FIG. 6 is a graphical representation depicting a prototypical athleticshoe that incorporates the distance and vertical height measuringtechnology and LCD display on the footwear itself using the instantinvention.

FIG. 7 is a graphical representation depicting the instant invention'svertical measurement displayed on a personal computer device.

FIG. 8 is a graphical representation of the instant invention's VERTMETER™, depicting representative maximum vertical jump heights fordifferent athletes.

FIG. 9 is an electronic circuit describing the original VERT™ prototype.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of the overall system including an internetbased Mayfunk Webservice.

FIG. 11A illustrates the mounting of a sensor on a shoe as viewed fromthe top of the shoe.

FIG. 11B illustrates the mounting of a sensor on a shoe as viewed fromthe bottom of the shoe.

FIG. 12A illustrates a first view of a sensor component which is part ofa sensor and bracket configuration for the Mayfunk hardware.

FIG. 12B illustrates a second view of a sensor component which is partof a sensor and bracket configuration for the Mayfunk hardware.

FIG. 12C illustrates a third view of a sensor component which is part ofa sensor and bracket configuration for the Mayfunk hardware.

FIG. 12D illustrates a first view of a bracket component which is partof a sensor and bracket configuration for the Mayfunk hardware.

FIG. 12E illustrates a second view of a bracket component which is partof a sensor and bracket configuration for the Mayfunk hardware.

FIG. 13A shows a perspective view of a tongue and groove lockingelectro-mechanical connections along with stackable add-ons.

FIG. 13B shows an exploded cross-sectional view of a tongue and groovelocking electro-mechanical connections along with stackable add-ons.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following is detailed description of the invention as described bythe accompanying drawings.

The instant invention has evolved greatly from a “VERT™” technology thatmeasured the vertical leap of the wearer of a shoe into a much broaderand more resplendent “All in One Training” modular technology known asthe “Mayfunk.” This new and enhanced vision is designed to track one ormore of an athlete's performance in any sport and deliver real-time dataon personal computing devices such as a generic Personal ProcessingUnits (PPUs), PDAs, mp3 players or other audio players, cell phones,pagers, beepers, radios, portable televisions, portable DVD players,other video playing devices, calculators, watches etcetera, and ornon-personal computing devices such as networked computers, broadcast TVor one or more social websites. Using the new Mayfunk technologyrequires data measuring one or more athletic performance parameters tobe uploaded or transmitted from the onboard sensor system to the genericPPUs, PDAs, mp3 players, cell phone etcetera, and or non-personalcomputing devices such as a networked computer, broadcast TV or a socialwebsite.

Examples of the athletic performance parameters to be transmittedinclude but are not limited to acceleration, cadence, distance, GPS,vertical leap, heart rate, pace, pressure, contact, speed, swing plane,temperature, time and many more. All data is transmitted in real-time toa main personal processing unit (PPU) or to a device (PDAs, mp3 players,cell phone) that has the ability to transmit or download the sensorinformation to other personal and non-personal devices. The so-calledPPU is simply an athletic performance parameter dedicated computingdevice that is empowered to download the performance data as describedabove. It is similar to a PDA, cell phone, mp3 player in size andcarries within it the Mayfunk software that is capable of receiving andprocessing the sensor data. Then the athletic parameter that has been someasured, processed and recorded in an onboard small memory unit can betransmitted to other personal and non-personal units if so desired bythe owner of the PPU inputting a set of keystrokes, button pressing ortouching the screen if the PPU is so equipped.

FIG. 1 is a system level view of the instant invention that is to beintegrated with an article of clothing such as a shoe, glove, wristband, hat, shorts, cap, shirt, helmet, pads, pants, or other such itemas taught by the invention. The system comprises a computing unit 100 (acontroller, microcontroller, ARM microcontroller) that communicates overa bus 110 with a sensor device 120; the computing unit 100 also haswithin itself a short-term memory. Additionally, an antenna 130 thattransmits some form of electromagnetic radiation is connected with thecomputing unit 100. The computing unit 100 monitors the athleticperformance parameters via bus 110 (serial, parallel, Bluetooth, USB,I2c, generic bus) that are being measured utilizing sensor 120. Examplesof the athletic performance parameters to be measured include but arenot limited to acceleration, cadence, distance, GPS, vertical leap,heart rate, pace, pressure, contact, speed, swing plane, temperature,time, a generic athletic performance parameter and many more. Thecomputing unit 100 having sensed some real time data has the capabilityto process that data in real time as well as to process the data toobtain desirable quantities, for example, peak performance data such asthe maximum height having been jumped by an athlete. The computing unit100 also provides period data for extended periods of time such as 1, 5,10, 20 seconds etcetera. All of this information is transferable fromcomputing unit 100 utilizing antenna 130 to another personal computingdevice (not shown) or onto a network or to non-personal devices (notshown). The antenna unit 130 communicates via Bluetooth technology to aPPU or alternatively communicates through a USB mechanical connection.Alternatively, the computing unit 100 can communicate via Wifi or othertype of electromagnetic communication to a networked web site asdescribed below. Power is provided either from a wall outlet socket inthe article of clothing or from one or more batteries contained in thearticle of manufacture.

FIG. 2 is a graphical illustration of the range of sensors that singlyor in any combination may be integrated into an article of clothing suchas a shoe, glove or similar item as taught by the invention. Computingunit 200 that is integrated onboard the article of clothing is capableof communicating with a variety of different types of sensor units. Someof the sensor units that computing unit 200 is able to communicate withare shown in FIG. 2. These include but are not limited to a tilt sensor210, an accelerometer 220, an optical range finder 230, a pressuresensor 240 and a generic sensor 250. Other types of sensor can includebut are not limited to laser, laser diode, and sound sensors. In thisinvention the words ‘integrated’ or ‘onboard’ when used in connectionwith the disposition of items on the clothing are used interchangeablyand mean that there is a unit that has been placed in the ordinarysurface or interior of an item so as not to cause undue distortion ofthe article of clothing's ordinary purpose. Additionally, the onboardcomputing unit 200 is detachable from the article of clothing andmodularized as taught with reference to FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of the modularization choices astaught by the instant invention. The instant invention teaches adetachable modularized system whereby the entire Mayfunk hardware may beremoved from the article of clothing so as to make use of it in anotherarticle of clothing. The hardware that is modularized comprises fourmain modules: a communication module 300, a power module 310, acomputing module 320 and a sensor module 330. The invention teaches twomodularization choices as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. 3A shows thatall four main modules 300-330 are selectively detachable as one largemodule. FIG. 3B shows that the communication 300, power 310 andcomputing 320 modules are detachable as one module whilst the sensorunit remains in the article of clothing.

FIG. 4 is a high level illustration of a sports themed Mayfunk Website400 utilized in coordination with the instant invention. This drawingdepicts a social website (Mayfunk.com for example) so that amateur orprofessional athletes in one or more sports are enabled to share,compare, socialize, or compete utilizing specific details about theirsports. The site has the ability for coaches and or scouts to search forathletes in major metropolitan areas, minor markets and virtuallyanywhere on the globe. In addition to this, professional and amateurathletes can set up a personal page of the site where they are able tobroadcast their personal and statistical information, videos such asYouTube and other audio video performances. Athletes from around theworld be able to judge their own performance and determine (according totheir age, region, state, country, etc.) where they are in accordance totheir performance “bar” for that particular sport or athletic manuever.In order to accomplish all of this, Mayfunk software 420 loaded into apersonal computing device 410 (otherwise known as a personal processingunit PPU elsewhere in this disclosure) is programmed to collect andtransmit data to the website where the information is digested andvisually presented on the website. A sensor 440 measures a quantifiableathletic performance parameter that is transmitted via a bus (not shown)and read into the computing unit 430 that is onboard the article ofclothing. This computing unit 430 transmits the sensor data to apersonal computing device PPU 410 that digests and processes the sensorinformation utilizing Mayfunk software 420. Additionally, if the ownerof the PPU 410 so desires he or she may forward the athletic sensor datato the Mayfunk website with a few keystrokes, button presses, or touchscreen commands.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart that shows the operation of the instant invention.It should be understood that an article of clothing contains on/offbuttons and one or more mode buttons to set the different scalingfunctions accessible from the onboard sensors. The routine starts upeither through pressing of an on switch located on the article ofclothing connected with the circuitry of FIG. 1, or through theinputting of commands to start the sensor data collection utilizing aPPU such as personal computing device 410. The PPU or the buttons on thearticle of clothing transmits that command to the computing unit 100onboard the article of clothing to commence ordinary operations. At thestart of ordinary operation the software enables peak detection 500 inthe event that the appropriate buttons have been pressed on the articleof clothing or a command(s) has been received from the PPU; otherwise,this function is disabled. Peak detection indicates the topmostmeasurement of various parameters such as height, temperature, breathingrate and many other parameters that are amenable to this scaling value.Then step 510 enables an integration circuit so as to integrate thevalues that are being sensed in the event that the appropriate buttonshave been pressed on the article of clothing or a command(s) has beenreceived from the PPU; otherwise, this function is disabled. Theintegration circuit may also include summing circuits or various otherdata shaping and analysis equations. Whilst steps 500-510 have utilizedpeak and integration circuits' enablement it should be understood thatthis is only a particular exemplary combination. A more generalizedexample envisions a generic summation function alone or in combinationwith a detection circuit; further extending this concept allows for theinclusion of one or more other summation and or detection circuitryenablement. After the integration circuits have been enabled in step 510the device is powered on 520 meaning that the sensor unit is powered onvia communication over bus 110. The computing unit 100 requests sensordata utilizing bus 110 to communicate with the sensor unit 120 in step530. When computing unit 100 receives sensor information across bus 110it is processed 540 by the onboard computing unit 100 that also clearssensor registers to await the next data value. Finally, the routinerefreshes a display (such as an LCD) on the article of clothing with theprocessed data value so that the owner of the article of clothing canascertain his current status. This routine continues indefinitely aslong as power is supplied to the various components or until a PPU or anoff button on the article of clothing is utilized to transmit a stopcommand.

FIG. 6 is a graphical representation depicting a prototypical athleticshoe that incorporates the distance and vertical height measuringtechnology and LCD display on the footwear itself using the instantinvention. Whilst this figure depicts a shoe as an article of clothing,the Mayfunk technology envisions any article of clothing incorporatingthe appropriate embedded sensor and modularized processing unit alongwith the associated power, antenna, and bus needed to facilitate themeasurement of athletic parameters. The particular example shown has aelectromagnetic sensor such as a laser or ultrasonic sensor unit on thesole of the shoe, however, neither the location nor the type of sensorshould be viewed as limiting since there are a variety of locations forthe sensor to be disposed upon the article of clothing. For example, aglove may have the sensor embedded on the middle part of a finger in theevent that it is grasping a golf club whilst a sensor may be placed atthe bottom of an athlete's small finger in the event he or she isgrasping a baseball bat.

FIG. 7 is a graphical representation depicting the instant invention'svertical measurement displayed on a personal computer device as shown inFIG. 4, item 410.

FIG. 8 is a graphical representation of the instant invention depictingrepresentative maximum vertical jump heights for different athletes.

Data Transmission Examples

a. Sensor to device: Mayfunk sensor transmits data to an external device(Blackberry™, I-phone™, I-pod™ etcetera). Mayfunk sensors areincorporated into an article of clothing (shoe, hat, wrist guards,shirt, pants, gloves, socks, shorts, undergarments etcetera) for anathlete. He or she can measure his performance and transmit this data tohis personal processing unit (PPU) or other computing device (PDA, cellphone etcetera) as well as viewing this data on an LCD display on hisarticle of clothing. The data can be stored on his PPU, cell phone,Blackberry™, Ipod™ etc.

b. Mayfunk sensor transmits data to a receiver to be broadcast ontelevision. In this case, Mayfunk sensor transmits data to a receiverregarding the specific athletic parameter being measured in real time(called in the prototyping VERT METER™) for viewing at home or in astadium. In addition, these measurements would be advertised with aspecific sponsor endorsement as the statistics are displayed in realtime as the game and player results are broadcast during the event.

c. Mayfunk sensor data is uploaded to a website. In this case, PPU datais transmitted or uploaded to Mayfunk.com social website for athletes.The athlete can compete with peers, socialize, analyze his/herperformance “bar” data, and compare data results from previousperformances and peers.

Original VERT™ Prototype

The original prototype related to athletic shoes or other footwear thatintegrally comprise vertical jump and or height meters, that measure,record and display the maximum height of a particular jump. The specialsensors can be ultrasonic or laser transmitters and processingelectronic circuitry which transmit, receive and process the signalswith digital or digital/analog conversion technology. Othertechnologies, such as radio, optical and electromagnetic transmissionsof different frequencies including microwaves are also alternativelyutilized.

The sensors and ultrasonic transducers can be placed about variouslocations on the shoe soles, i.e., toe, heel or central area, or aboutthe perimeter of the shoe. The digital display location can vary on thefootwear as well. It is contemplated that miniaturized technology havingdurability, impact and shock-resistant features to protect the sensorand electronic packages and or devices within the base or perimeter ofthe footwear will optimize performance. The precision selection ofappropriate and cost-effective materials and components are to bedetermined utilizing routine engineering analysis. This would includeassociated circuit boards, integrated circuits and housings. It can beappreciated that the distance measuring technologies, frequenciesdesired or required for optimal performance, hardware and software,power sources, battery types and power output will be determined duringroutine analysis.

Related aspects of the original VERT™ prototype are that once thesensing technologies detect and display the jump height, that same datacan be relayed in real time to arena displays, jumbotrons, andtelevisions for home viewers (such as yellow goal lines in football).Similarly, the data can be input to MP3 players, iPODS™, iPHONES™, BlueTooth devices, cell phones, PDAs, laptop computers, and other digitalmulti-media devices or consumer electronics such as displays, as well astelevisions, computer monitors, WiFi networks and devices, audio playersand similar multi-media devices for receiving the data and providingsame to consumers.

The system is a means of providing real time data and information, inthe heat of performance and athletic competition, to the athlete,teammates and competitors as well as fans, television viewers andconsumers via wireless or wired networks. This is achieved in partthrough the use of compact or miniaturized electronics, secured andimpact resistance components, sensors and displays, and a seamlessintegration into the shoe wear itself. In this regard, it is appreciatedthat the fan, reporter, coach or corporate officer can watch theathletic contests and their favorite player, listen and view the playersstatistics in real time and instantaneously, and monitor the maximumheights of jumps for dunks, “air time”, spectacular plays or tip-offs;these statistics are coveted by many fans, fantasy leagues, competitionsand gambling purposes amongst others. It is foreseen that such astatistic will approach the significance of time-honored stats such asthree-point baskets, field goal percentages, hang-times, and by analogy40-yard dash times and touchdowns in football Enhanced graphics wouldillustrate the vertical leap by arrows, vectors and vivid color schemes,similar to the superimposed first down lines and demarcations foremphasizing relative positions on the field for television viewersduring football games.

a. VERT™ Prototypical Devices

VERT™ is Applicant's coined term and proprietary trademark for the noveldevice and footwear product that can measure the maximum vertical leap(or height) of a person jumping using measuring technology such asultrasonic/laser technology that is attached to, and incorporated withina shoe. The data from the measuring technology (for example ultrasonic)is calculated by an algorithm program that captures the optimum heightor vertical jump and removes all jump anomalies. The jump data (andcontinuous motion data) will be displayed real time on the athletes shoevia LCD displays and wireless technology. Other aspects are thetransmission of the data (for example Blue Tooth devices) that are usedto broadcast data to electronic receivers such as cell phones, PDAs, andmany different types of consumer electronics or computer devices.

b. VERT™ Wireless Applications

1. Personal use: As an example, an individual athlete during basketballpractice will have the ability to capture his/her individual jump shotperformance and measure his/her ideal vertical leap height and rate.This can be accomplished by taking a series of 20 similar jump shots andanalyzing height ratio vs. shot success allowing the player to applythese statistics in an individual or team practice “my best jump shotpercentage is when I hit a 20 “VERT™”, meaning vertical jump height fora high percentage success rate in making the shot. This “individualperformance” will also parallel “team performance” which will allow thecoaching staff to adjust and inform players via VERT™ data analysis.Data analysis will become an ongoing tool to measure athlete performancein real time in order to give individuals and teams the winning edge. Inaddition, VERT™ data analysis will give a player constant awareness ofwhere he/she ranks amongst his/her peer group known as a “bar”.

2. Commercial and Entertainment use: real-time broadcasts will allowviewers of a game and/or event the ability to track, analyze, and toutVERT™ data real time in any game/event setting. Two examples of such abroadcast: Little league game: will have the ability to watch your kid'sperformance via WiFi or cellular technology and phones (like i-PHONE™)and cheer for and root the players' performances as well. Sensor data iscollected by the processing unit in the article of clothing andtransmitted via the onboard antenna to one or more other processingunit(s). This other processing unit is either for the local display ofthe athletic statistics or for the forwarding of the sensor data ontoanother communication media such as the internet, interactive televisionor some other network. A dedicated server is programmable with Mayfunksoftware for the collection, formatting and transmission of this data inreal time onto the other network. Other advantages and features include“coaching” from the sidelines. NBA/College games: Fans will have theability to watch and monitor their favorite players' VERT™ statssimultaneously as actions occur and in real time during the game. Thefan can monitor performance on their cell phones, electronic device,interactive television or monitor, and/or via jumbotrons, and the topplayers the game, network or individual selects. The process oftransmission to different communication media such as Jumbo-Trons,interactive TV, and or websites, is tied to a central web service. Theindividual personal units (PPU) communicate via WiFi to a central Vertperformance server. WiFi provides inter-operable wireless access betweendevices. Wi-Fi generally makes access to information between devicesfrom different manufacturers easier, as it can eliminate some of thephysical restraints of wiring which can be especially true for mobiledevices. Using WiFi, the individual performance units communicate to theaforementioned Vert performance server which in turn streams, downloadsor transfers datafeeds based on subscriber preferences to any internetcapable device. A corporate or team subscription will have the option ofinstalling a Vert performance server locally with tailored datafeeds forspectators during live events. Further, the ability of real time datawill allow the network for College and NBA games to broadcast real-timedata for television, cable, satellite and internet viewers as well.Applicant has coined the phrase VERT METER™ for displaying the verticalleap height, player's name, and multi-media presentation.

c. VERT METER™ Marketing and Business Method Applications

VERT METER™ is an application in which a graphical image utilizing VERTtechnology is displayed during a sporting event. In the case ofbasketball, a VERT METER™ would be endorsed by specific “advertiser” andthe VERT™ stats of the game would be displayed in real time as the game(and player) results are posted during broadcast of the event viatelevision, radio and internet. The data from Applicants technology willbe beamed real time throughout the event allowing broadcasters andannouncers to voice statistical performance for individual and teamplayers. An example of an announcement would be “The VERT METER™ statsof the game are brought to you by Verizon™ . . . . Raising the bar ofyour performance. Tonight's Verizon VERT™ leader is no other than DwayneWade with a 37” VERT™ to end the game with an astonishing and incredibleslam-dunk”. The instant athletic footwear, sensors, electronic circuitryand technology, along with VERT METER™ marketing and businessmethodology will add both direct and indirect revenue via participatingpartners when licensing this wireless technology and utilizing VERTMETER™ proprietary intellectual property.

Prototypes

Applicant has successfully designed, built and tested prototypes oftechnology incorporating the instant inventions as described herein.Ultrasonic transducers and sensors manufactured by the Migatron Corp.and Spaleta engineers have been modified and incorporated into athleticfootwear per Applicant's specifications and custom designs, as well asin conjunction with LCD displays that indicate jump height. Matters ofdesign choice to one skilled in the art include switches, memory modes,operating temperatures and compensations, beam width and power source,analog output conditions, zero and span range, self-contained sensors,turbulence, vibration and impact conditions, response times and thelike. Similarly, electronic processing circuitry, software andcalculations used in conjunction with the transmitters and receivers arematters of design choice with varying parameters, accuracy desired andcost-effectiveness of components and materials. One of the prototypesthat has been developed has the electronic circuitry as shown in FIG. 9.The following is a short description of the basic functioning of thisearly prototype. The systems comprises seven basic sub-circuitsincluding: 1) a Power Supply Sub-circuit; 2) a Pulse Timing Sub-circuit;3) a Pulse Filtering Sub-circuit; 4) a Transmitter Sub-circuit; 5) aDetection Conditioning Sub-circuit; 6) a Peak Detection Sub-circuit; and7) a Distance Readout Sub-circuit. In the overall circuit of FIG. 9there are two ultrasonic sensors in use. One is used as a speaker, whichsends out short pulses or ultrasonic waves with a preferred frequency.The second acts as a microphone and listens for any reflected ultrasonicsignals. The AMP CIRCUIT uses properties of the discharge timing of anRC circuit to record a time delay as a voltage difference. The longerthe time the larger the voltage difference that is being compared. Ifthe circuit waits too long, the internal voltage in the RC circuit dropsbelow some minimum threshold, and the timing circuit resets itself andsends out the next pulse. The rest of the circuitry is just additionalelectronics to either condition the voltages for output or display. Eachof the aforementioned sub-circuits are now described in short summaries.

(1) Power Supply Sub-circuit (FIG. 9, 910): Provides on-board batterybacked power and regulated voltages for operation

(2) Pulse Timing Sub-circuit (FIG. 9, 920):

Measures time delay from between pulse transmission and reception

Output: short voltage pulses to (3) to initiate timing sequence

Input: voltage signal on ultrasonic receiver

Timing sequence completes when input voltage at ultrasonic receiver ishigh enough.

The minimum voltage is chosen in the circuit design

A new timing sequence is initiated either when an input voltage isrecorded or a timeout condition is reached.

(3) Pulse Filtering Sub-circuit (FIG. 9, 930):

Condition the timing pulse from (2) as an acceptable input to ultrasonicreceiver circuit (4)

(4) Transmitter Sub-circuit (FIG. 9, 940):

Sets the operational frequency and emits ultrasonic beam. Takes aconditioned timing pulse as input.

(5) Detection Conditioning Sub-circuit (FIG. 9, 950):

Once a timing sequence completes in (2), a voltage signal correspondingto a time delay is passed to (5) for conditioning into a distancemeasurement.

(6) Peak Detection Sub-circuit (FIG. 9, 960):

Optional sub-circuit that will hold the highest recorded value. Thiscircuit is controlled via a physical switch, used to disable or resetthe peak value back to zero.

(7) Distance Readout Sub-circuit (FIG. 9, 970): an input voltage isre-scaled as input for the dedicated LCD readout electronics.

Applicant is in the process of miniaturizing the technology, components,housings and materials to produce a commercially superior and acceptableproduct line for the instant athletic footwear and electronics.

Applicant deems several aspects of the inventions to be novel, useful,non-obvious and patentable, including novel combinations of technologyin the field of footwear, business methods, data compilation andorganization, software processes, system design and configuration,amongst others.

The instant description, figures, schematic, charts, and drawingsillustrate to one of ordinary skill in the art, how to design, install,implement and utilize the instant athletic footwear which incorporatesintegral electronic circuitry and components for measuring anddisplaying vertical jump height and methodology.

Early Technical Abstract of Invention:

The personal athletic performance system is a modular configuration ofelectronics that is embedded in or attached to sports apparel orsporting equipment to provide quantifiable data telemetry valuable forathletic training or personal performance trending.

The simplest configuration involves a single computing unit that isuploaded with customized software programs depending on the athleticactivity. The computing unit comprises a microcontroller, a computerconnection interface, and several general-purpose connections to be usedto connect to other components of the modular system. The computing unitis meant to be a common reusable element across multiple athleticactivities that make use of similar sensor technologies. As newtechnologies are developed, the computing unit can be upgraded thatincludes new capabilities but is still backwards compatible withpreviously purchases athletic sensor sets.

New software is optionally uploaded to the unit via a connection to apersonal computer or cellular phone, before a new athletic activity.Though typically a computing unit will come pre-configured for one ormore activities as part of the purchase of an activity bundle thatincludes specially designed apparel or equipment that is meant to usethe athletic performance system electronic components. The personalprocessing unit can be easily removed and reused with other activitybundles.

In this simple configuration, the computing unit collects performancetelemetry data from one or more sensors, known collectively as a sensorset. The sensor set is tailored for a specific athletic endeavor. Thesensor sets can be made up of a combination of digital or analogdevices. They can include electronics that act as sensor input, or theycan also include indicators and switches to be used to control thecomputing unit operation or to provide instant feedback. In the case ofa golf-training scenario, a sensor set optionally includes indicatorlights for feedback on clubface position or stance balance.

The same computing unit can be re-used with different sensors sets byuploading the corresponding software programs for that sensor set from apersonal computing device such as a cellular phone or personal computer.Typically a purchased activity bundle will include apparel or equipmentwith embedded sensor set electronics.

In the simplest configuration the computing unit is also connected toone or more data communication modules. The communication modules tochoose from can include a local display such as an led read out, a datalogging device such as a micro-SD card which is later read by a personalcomputer, or one of many wired or wireless communication options fornear-real time transmission to another computing device. Typically, asingle communication module is in use and would physically attach to thecomputing unit. Activity bundles optionally include a communicationunit, or they can be purchased separately.

The same power source module energizes the computing unit, sensor set,and communications module. The power module would consist of arechargeable battery or optionally an external power source such as aUSB cable to a computer. The power module may need to be physicallyattached to the computing unit, or it may be a physically separatedmodule connected to the personal processing unit only by a wired lead.The exact form factor and voltage needed, is determined by the space,weight and movement constraints of an individual athletic activity. Asthe system is modular different power module options can be included indifferent activity bundles or optionally provided a la carte.

The available sensor set configurations can be extended further usingradio telemetry technology for sensor situations where a physicalconnection between the computing unit and sensor is impractical orimpossible. Such sensors would need to provide their own power source.An upgraded computing unit may need to be purchased to make use of theseradio-based sensors.

The modular system also has the capability to be configured in morecomplicated situations were multiple computing unit s work together in ameshed network configuration. A mesh capable computing unit s isoptionally used in place of the basic computing unit s using the sameathletic sensor sets. In such a configuration, each computing unit wouldmake peer wireless connections to nearby units in the mesh in such a waythat only one data logging unit or personal computer would be necessaryto pull data from any and all computing unit in the mesh network. Inthis way, the modular athletic performance system can be scaled toinclude team performance information in a coordinated way. The followingare some basic examples of different contemplated configurations. Thementioning of specific components does not disparage the use of othersimilar devices. For example, the citing of a lithium battery does notlimit the applicant to that particular type of device and similarly forthe other items.

Basic Athletic Activity Examples

Basic Basketball Bundle:

Activity Specific Sensor Set: Instrumented shoes

Computing unit: Snaps onto back or side of shoe

Communication Module: data logger or LED Display attached to computingunit

Power Module: Lithium Battery attached to computing unit

Shoes:

Embedded range finding technology for vertical jump calculation

Accelerometers for lateral movement

Includes start/stop/reset buttons for interacting with the computingunit

Basic Golf Bundle:

Activity Specific Sensor Set: Instrumented clubs, gloves

Computing unit: Snaps onto back of glove

Communication Module: Bluetooth or data logger attached to computingunit

Power Module: Lithium Battery attached to computing unit

Glove:

Embedded palm and finger tip pressure sensors for grip information.

Includes start/stop/reset buttons for communication with computing unit.

Club:

Embedded accelerometer and pressure sensors in club head for golf swingand ball strike data

Embedded compass for clubface direction data.

Club handle provides a wired connection to glove. The connection uses amagnetic coupling, so that if the grip is released on the club the wiredconnection can disengage without causing damage or injury. (Could beextended with additional sensors into an advanced training package toprovide feedback on stance and club grip.)

Basic Cycling Bundle:

Activity Specific Sensor Set: Bicycle accessory pack

Computing unit: attached to bicycle on handlebar

Communication Module: data logger or handle bar LED Display or wirelessattached to computing unit

Power Module: Lithium Battery attached to computing unit

Bicycle Accessory Pack:

RPM sensor attached to bicycle tire

Tilt sensor for incline telemetry

GPS for location

Personal heart rate monitor with magnetic coupling to prevent injury ordamage in case of a fall

Includes handlebar start/stop/reset buttons for interacting with thecomputing unit.

Basic Running Bundle:

Activity Specific Sensor Set: Arm band unit, RF shoe pod

Computing unit: Attached to arm band.

Communication Module: data logger or LED Display or wireless attached tocomputing unit

Power Module: Lithium Battery attached to computing unit

Armband:

GPS

Heart Rate Monitor, using magnetic couplers

radio receiver antenna to communicate with shoe pod

control buttons to use with computing unit

Shoe Pod:

accelerometer for stride cadence information

pressure sensor for footfall

radio transmitter

on/off switch

Basic Curling Bundle:

Activity Specific Sensor Set: shoes, glove, broom, belt

Computing unit: attached to waist

Communication Module: data logger or LED Display or wireless attached tocomputing unit

Power Module: Lithium Battery attached to computing unit

Shoes:

pressure sensors for push off when throwing, provides balance and powerinformation

wired connection under clothing to computing unit at waist, usingmagnetic coupling for safety

Glove:

accelerometer and tilt sensor for hand position information duringthrowing

Wired connection under clothing to computing unit at waist

Broom:

pressure sensor and accelerometer information concerning sweep speed andpower

Wired connection to glove using magnetic coupling

System Overview Including Mayfunk Webservice:

FIG. 10 is an illustration of the overall system including an Internetbased Mayfunk.com Webservice. The Mayfunk.com WebService 1000 comprisesa Social Networking for Activity Training & Competition softwarearchitecture; this provides interactive subscriber communicationincluding the loading, storage and retrieval of athletic statistics toand from the hardware and software supporting the webservice 1000.Subscribers are thereby able to share their performance parameters aswell as the performance statistics of famous athletes with friends on areal-time and after hours basis. Thus, the Mayfunk.com webservice 1000makes it possible to share stats by uploading and downloading statsduring live athletic competition such as professional orsemi-professional sports as well as local adolescent leagues. Further,an easily accessible webpage is programmed for the manual uploading,downloading and storage of athletic statistics that are transmitted fromthe various athletic sensors present on an athlete's clothing.

In other words, an athlete can use his or her PPU to monitor his or herstatistics associated with Mayfunk sensors or those of his friends andmanually input this data through the use of a webpage programmed forentry of this data. By accessing the internet in a conventional manner,an individual may enter the data manually by typing it into the webpage;he or she may optionally transfer the data by plugging the PPU into a(USB wired, Bluetooth wireless etc. . . . ) computer port and loadingthe file into the webservice across the internet with a simple datatransfer command using pre-existing communication protocols. The reverseprocedure is also programmed into the Mayfunk.com webservice softwareand client computing software; in other words, using a webpage tomanually retrieve data from the online storage database as well as theloading of a PPU through a wired or wireless connection to an internetcapable computer. Alternatively, the webservice is also programmed forautomatic storage of data that bypasses the webpage itself. For example,during individual or team play, various performance statistics from oneor more athletes equipped with Mayfunk computing and sensor devices aresent automatically via the Internet for automatic storage in thewebservice. In this manner, the system provides for real-time automatedstorage of athletic stats as well as manual storage and retrieval of thedata entered into the webpage. The automated retrieval of athleticperformance parameters is also contemplated by applicant; here,subscribers automatically receive real-time or delayed stats accordingto their user selected or preprogrammed user preferences into their PPUfor selected athletic events or for a set of events suggested by theMayfunk.com webservice. For example, the service polls first time usersor at other predetermined times for the type of athletic events a usermight want. If a user selects professional tennis and or a sub categoryof tennis competitions then this category is streamed to the user's PPUat the time of the competition or the next time the PPU is activated. Itshould be finally noted that all of the automated and or manualdecisions can alternatively decided on an event by event basis leavingthe question open until the user makes a decision.

The aforementioned functionalities are made possible through the use ofPersonal Computing Client Software loaded onto a subscriber's PersonalProcessing Unit 1010 (PPU). This computing software is updated via anActivity Program Update Service associated with the Mayfunk.comWebservice. The updates are optionally initiated automatically via apreprogrammed or pre-selected time frame or updated by a user activationrequest for it. User activation of the program update service isgoverned via the default personal computing client software loaded intothe PPU 1010 that presents a user of the PPU a series of choices to a)start the software update; b) select time period updates or c) accept adefault update time.

As has been discussed previously, the Personal Processing Unit (PPU)1010 is a device such as an IPOD™, an IPhone™, a PDA, a Blackberry™, acell phone, an MP3 player, a calculator or some other generic hand heldelectronic device. This PPU interacts with the Internet for the manualas well as automatic reception and transmission of athletic statisticsfrom the webservice and for the communication with the computing unit1020 that controls a Mayfunk sensor or array of sensors. In order tocommunicate with these sensors and to operate them effectively, a set ofsoftware controls are necessary for each sensor type. The PPU 1010 ispreloaded with a personal computing client software to upload activityprograms to computing unit 1020 prior to its activation. Once anyactivity program uploads are complete, data telemetry is received fromcomputing unit 1020 controlling the activated one or more sensors.Additionally, each of the PPUs is equipped with software that permitsthe display on a graphical user interface GUI associated with the PPU ofsummary information during and after the athletic activity. The PPU 1010is then able to upload athletic activity data via the Internet to theMayfunk.com webservice 1000 either automatically or through manualactivation by user control. When a user originally activates his or hersubscription, the user is presented with the option of acceptingpredefined default periodic data transfers or making the transfersmanually or leaving the question open for each event.

There also comes a time for software loaded into the computing unit 1020to be updated. These updates may arrive for a variety of reasons butprincipally are changes in existing sensor software that are necessaryin order to improve the sensing of the data. Alternatively, the updatesare cause by the changing of modules in a sensor package necessitatingnew software in the computing unit 1020. When a user desires to have adifferent type of sensor or new sensor module to monitor his or herstats or those of another individual an update to the activityprogram(s) is necessary for data acquisition to function accordingly. Inthis event, the Mayfunk.com webservice provides automated or manualupdated activity programs that are transmitted to the PPU 1010 of auser. The user is then able to receive updated software for thecomputing unit 1020 so as to permit the accurate and efficient controland data acquisition associated with the appropriate sensor unit(s).

The Mayfunk.com webservice is able to determine the necessary updatedactivity program(s) by periodically polling of the PPUs connected to itso as to discern the type of sensor activity programs necessary for eachPPU. Alternatively, the updated activity program(s) are requested of theMayfunk webservice via a request from the Personal Computing ClientSoftware (PPU) 1010 that determines the need for updated software basedupon a transmitted update request across the internet containing thecurrent software version loaded in the computing unit 1020.

It is this computing unit 1020 that contains an activity program thatcontrols sensor data acquisition. The activity program also controlscommunication to personal processing unit PPU 1010 via wired or wirelesscommunication (such as USB or Bluetooth). The activity program requiresa specific sensor bundle loaded from PPU 1010 for a specific activity.Whenever a new activity requires a different type of sensor unit, anewactivity program is loaded into the computing unit 1020 from a personalprocessing unit (PPU) 1010 sent from the Mayfunk.com webservice 1000 viaUSB or Bluetooth prior to the start of a different activity where sensormeasurement is desired. Finally, the system permits only one activityprogram loaded into a microcontroller at a time and that the activityprograms are offered to users from a collection of programs from apersonal computing software layer.

The initial design target language for the computing unit 1020 areATMEGA8 and ATMEGA168 microcontrollers: AVR-C or Arduino type. Thecurrent software loader is a dedicated microcontroller boot loader thatprovides re-programmability via USB or Bluetooth (wired or wireless).Initial design target for ATMEGA8 and ATMEGA168 microcontrollers: opensource Arduino boot loader: http://arduino.cc/en/hacking/bootloader.

Transmission to different communication media (Jumbo Trons, interactivet.v, websites):

This functionality is tied to the central webservice. The individualcomputing units communicate via wifi to a central Vert performanceserver, that then streams datafeeds based on subscriber preferences toany internet capable device. A corporate or team subscription will havethe option of installing a Vert performance server locally with tailoreddatafeeds for spectators during live events.

Finally, it should be understood that the Mayfunk software that has beendescribed and throughout this document are cross-platform tailored withsupport for multiple personal computing device platforms.

FIGS. 1-12 illustrate the mounting of a sensor on a shoe and a sensorand bracket configuration for the Mayfunk hardware.

Specifically, FIG. 12 illustrates the sensor unit and bracket in items1200-1240. The Mayfunk sensor is shown in items 1200-1220 while theMayfunk bracket is shown in items 1230-1240. The Mayfunk sensor is shownin its front view 1200 along with associated logo and its back view 1210describes protrusions (lines and dark triangle area) that are integralwith the sensor unit and extend off the ordinary surface of the lighttriangular area of the sensor unit. These protrusions are to be insertedinto the bracket as a male connector is inserted into the femaleconnector bracket shown in 1230-1240. The sensor's back view is shown initem 1220 along with a mounting bracket male connector in the top of thefigure; this mounting bracket male connector is to be inserted in theslot of the female bracket of 1230-1240. Item 1230 shows the bracketfront view mounting clip-in slot that serves as the receiver for thesensor unit protrusions described with respect to items 1200-1220. Item1240 shows the bracket top view and more clearly illustrates themounting clip in-slot for receiving the male connector piece. As shownin this example, the bracket is attached to a shoe with an adhesive andthe sensor unit is attached to the bracket with a simple male-femalesnap in connector configuration. However, other attachmentconfigurations are possible such as the physical integration of thesensor unit into the shoe as one piece with the shoe without mounting ona bracket. Also, whilst a shoe has been shown as the piece of clothingthat has the Mayfunk technology, it is contemplated by the inventor thatany ordinary piece of clothing may be adapted to incorporate the Mayfunksensor, power supply, computing unit and any future add-ons. Thesepieces of clothing such as a shirt, shoe, cap, socks, shorts, pants,gloves, hat (etc) have similar mounting brackets with the instantinvention's technology attached thereto. Additionally, the entire systemmay be made integral with the article(s) of clothing such that it is noteasily identifiable to an external user providing no performancepenalties for the use of the device(s); this is accomplished by usingcommon materials (plastics, rubbers, linens, cottons, polyesters, etc)used in the manufacture of the device to mount, shroud and or disguisethe device(s) as part of the article(s) of clothing. In either case,whether overtly displayed or covertly worn the Mayfunk devices aredesigned to be fully detachable, partially detachable, or non-detachablethus running the full range of potential options. Other modifications tothe mounting bracket system are described as follows.

FIG. 13 items 1300 and 1310 shows a tongue and groove lockingelectro-mechanical connections along with stackable add-ons.Specifically, item 1300 shows a tongue and groove connection where thetongue and groove rails contain the electrical connections for thehardware. Item 1310 describes how the tongue and groove connectionsprovide stackable add-ons with an electrical connection to the mountingbracket. In this drawing, the athletic sensor(s) are embedded in thepiece of athletic clothing (not shown) and a Mayfunk computing unitattaches to the bracket whilst stackable add-ons provide furthercapabilities and updates to the existing hardware all capped off with abattery for easy replacement. Whilst the sensors have been described asbeing embedded in the piece of athletic clothing, they may also becontained in one of the stackable add-ons.

We claim:
 1. A system for tracking athletic movements comprising: one ormore sensors configured to generate electrical signals descriptive ofdetected physical movement of an athlete during a sporting event; acomputing unit configured to: obtain, during the sporting event, theelectrical signals generated by the one or more sensors in real time,determine, during the sporting event, one or more athletic performanceparameters in real time based on the obtained electrical signals, andcompute, during the sporting event, one or more performance assessmentsfor the athlete based on the one or more determined athletic performanceparameters, wherein the one or more performance assessments: (i)correspond specifically to a sport of the sporting event, and (ii)indicate at least a peak athletic performance metric for the athlete;and one or more external computing devices configured to: communicate,during the sporting event, data indicating content associated with thesporting event over a network to multiple subscriber devices that areconnected to a gambling network, wherein the content enables aninteractive display of the one or more performance assessments on themultiple subscriber devices.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein thecontent specifies multimedia corresponding to at least one of the one ormore performance assessments.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein themultimedia corresponding to at least one of the one or more performanceassessments comprises an advertisement representing a sponsorendorsement of the athlete.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein: the oneor more external computing devices comprises a server system running aweb service, and the web service permits users associated with themultiple subscriber devices to upload and download data indicating thecontent associated with the sporting event.
 5. The system of claim 2,wherein the one or more sensors and the computing unit are positionedwithin a same housing of a computing device.
 6. The system of claim 5,wherein the computing device is a wearable device.
 7. The system ofclaim 2, wherein the one or more external computing devices are furtherconfigured to: provide, for output to a display device associated withthe sporting event during the sporting event, data indicating thecontent associated with the sporting event, the content (i) enablingdisplay of the one or more performance assessments on the display deviceduring the sporting event, and (ii) specifying multimedia correspondingto at least one of the one or more performance assessments.
 8. Thesystem of claim 2, wherein the interactive display of the one or moreperformance assessments comprises a user interface that permits a userof a subscriber device to upload and download the one or moreperformance assessments from a web service.
 9. A computer-implementedmethod comprising: obtaining, during a sporting event, movement datadetected in real time by one or more sensors, the movement datacorresponding to physical movement of an athlete; determining, duringthe sporting event, one or more athletic performance parameters for theathlete in real time based at least on the obtained movement data;computing, during the sporting event, one or more performanceassessments for the athlete in real time based at least on the one ormore determined athletic performance parameters, wherein the one or moreperformance assessments: (i) correspond specifically to a sport of thesporting event, and (ii) indicate at least a peak athletic performancemetric for the athlete; and communicating, during the sporting event andto one or more subscriber devices connected to a gambling network, dataindicating content that enables an interactive display of the one ormore performance assessments on the multiple subscriber devices.
 10. Themethod of claim 9, wherein the data indicating content specifiesmultimedia corresponding to at least one of the one or more performanceassessments.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the multimediacorresponding to at least one of the one or more performance assessmentscomprises an advertisement representing a sponsor endorsement of theathlete.
 12. The method of claim 10, wherein: communicating the dataindicating content comprises communicating the data using a web servicethat runs on a server system; and the web service permits usersassociated with the multiple subscriber devices to upload and downloaddata indicating the content associated with the sporting event.
 13. Themethod of claim 12, wherein the data indicating content associated withthe sporting event is downloaded to a subscriber of the gamblingnetwork.
 14. The method of claim 10, wherein: the one or moreperformance assessments for the athlete are determined by a computingunit; and the one or more sensors and the computing unit are positionedwithin a same housing of a computing device.
 15. The method of claim 14,wherein the computing device is a wearable device.
 16. The method ofclaim 10, further comprising: providing, for output to a display deviceassociated with the sporting event during the sporting event, dataindicating the content associated with the sporting event, the content(i) enabling display of the one or more performance assessments on thedisplay device, and (ii) specifying multimedia corresponding to at leastone of the one or more performance assessments.
 17. A system fortracking athletic movements comprising: one or more sensors configuredto generate electrical signals descriptive of detected physical movementof an athlete during a sporting event; a computing unit configured to:obtain, during the sporting event, the electrical signals generated bythe one or more sensors in real time, determine, during the sportingevent, one or more athletic performance parameters in real time based onthe obtained electrical signals, and compute, during the sporting event,one or more performance assessments for the athlete based on the one ormore determined athletic performance parameters, wherein the one or moreperformance assessments: (i) correspond specifically to a sport of thesporting event, and (ii) indicate at least a peak athletic performancemetric for the athlete; and one or more external computing devicesconfigured to: communicate, during the sporting event, data indicatingcontent associated with the sporting event over a network to multiplesubscriber devices that are connected to a fantasy sports leaguenetwork, wherein the content enables an interactive display of the oneor more performance assessments on the multiple subscriber devices. 18.The system of claim 17, wherein the content specifies multimediacorresponding to at least one of the one or more performanceassessments.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the multimediacorresponding to at least one of the one or more performance assessmentscomprises an advertisement representing a sponsor endorsement of theathlete.
 20. The system of claim 18, wherein: the one or more externalcomputing devices comprises a server system running a web service, andthe web service permits users associated with the multiple subscriberdevices to upload and download data indicating the content associatedwith the sporting event.
 21. The system of claim 18, wherein the one ormore sensors and the computing unit are positioned within a same housingof a computing device.
 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the computingdevice is a wearable device.
 23. The system of claim 18, wherein the oneor more external computing devices are further configured to: provide,for output to a display device associated with the sporting event duringthe sporting event, data indicating the content associated with thesporting event, the content (i) enabling display of the one or moreperformance assessments on the display device during the sporting event,and (ii) specifying multimedia corresponding to at least one of the oneor more performance assessments.
 24. The system of claim 18, wherein theinteractive display of the one or more performance assessments comprisesa user interface that permits a user of a subscriber device to uploadand download the one or more performance assessments from a web service.25. A computer-implemented method comprising: obtaining, during asporting event, movement data detected in real time by one or moresensors, the movement data corresponding to physical movement of anathlete; determining, during the sporting event, one or more athleticperformance parameters for the athlete in real time based at least onthe obtained movement data; computing, during the sporting event, one ormore performance assessments for the athlete in real time based at leaston the one or more determined athletic performance parameters, whereinthe one or more performance assessments: (i) correspond specifically toa sport of the sporting event, and (ii) indicate at least a peakathletic performance metric for the athlete; and communicating, duringthe sporting event and to one or more subscriber devices connected to afantasy sports league network, data indicating content that enables aninteractive display of the one or more performance assessments on themultiple subscriber devices.
 26. The method of claim 25, wherein thedata indicating content specifies multimedia corresponding to at leastone of the one or more performance assessments.
 27. The method of claim26, wherein the multimedia corresponding to at least one of the one ormore performance assessments comprises an advertisement representing asponsor endorsement of the athlete.
 28. The method of claim 26, wherein:communicating the data indicating content comprises communicating thedata using a web service that runs on a server system; and the webservice permits users associated with the multiple subscriber devices toupload and download data indicating the content associated with thesporting event.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the data indicatingcontent associated with the sporting event is downloaded to a subscriberof the fantasy sports league network.
 30. The method of claim 26,wherein: the one or more performance assessments for the athlete aredetermined by a computing unit; and the one or more sensors and thecomputing unit are positioned within a same housing of a computingdevice.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the computing device is awearable device.
 32. The method of claim 26, further comprising:providing, for output to a display device associated with the sportingevent during the sporting event, data indicating the content associatedwith the sporting event, the content (i) enabling display of the one ormore performance assessments on the display device, and (ii) specifyingmultimedia corresponding to at least one of the one or more performanceassessments.